Old Time Radio Westerns

Episode: Grand Ole Opry – "Casey Jones" (Original Air Date: 09-20-1952)

Digitally Restored Broadcast, Presented by Andrew Rhynes
Featured Host and Performers: Red Foley, Smiley Burnett, Rod Brassfield, Minnie Pearl, Claude Sharp & the Old Hickory Singers, Stringbean

Overview

This episode transports listeners back to the Golden Age of radio variety, showcasing an authentic 1952 broadcast of the Grand Ole Opry sponsored by Prince Albert Tobacco. Hosted by the beloved Red Foley, the show blends homespun comedy, classic American songcraft, character-driven storytelling, and live musical performances. Special guests include film and radio comedian Smiley Burnett, the charming Minnie Pearl, comic Rod Brassfield, and musical numbers by Foley and supporting acts.

Key Segments & Highlights

[01:43] – Introduction by Andrew Rhynes

• Host’s Welcome: Andrew Rhynes introduces the episode, providing historical context and emphasizing the enhanced audio quality.
• Episode Details: Focus on Red Foley in the hosting role, with Prince Albert as the key sponsor.

[02:06] – Show Opening: Grand Ole Opry Kicks Off

• Theme Song & Chorus: Lively opening, blending train and Western imagery, notably with the “Freight Train Boogie.”
• Red Foley’s Greeting:
  “And a great big howdy to all of my good friends and neighbors of Prince Albert Smokin Tobacco's Grand Old Opry.” ([02:54])
• Roll Call of Tonight’s Lineup: Stringbean, the Old Hickory Singers, surprise guest Smiley Burnett, and the rest of the Opry gang.

[04:36] – Comedy Segment: Rod Brassfield

• Rod Brassfield’s Folksy Humor: Jokes about small-town life, dating prowess, and local stories.
• Notable Quote:
  Rod Brassfield: “If I don't look like I'm myself or act like I ain't got'n a good sense tonight, it's because I slept on a pool table last night and I'm all balled up.” ([04:41])
• Running gag about being the “kissing champion” of Hornwall and Shirtail.
• Anecdotes about his Uncle Sipe and rural life humor.
• Classic One-Liner:
  Rod Brassfield: “Any little jerk can do it.” (on milking a cow, [06:53])
• Crowd interaction and banter with Red Foley.

[10:47] – Special Guest: Smiley Burnett

• Red Foley’s Introduction:
  “Each time he's more entertaining than ever. His movies sort of keep him out in Hollywood most of the time, but every now and then he escapes and heads up our way.” ([10:47])
• Smiley’s Trademark Self-Deprecation:
  Smiley Burnett: “Well, our doggies, Red, the pleasure is all mine. You know, I just wouldn't dream of turning down an invitation to this Opry. Besides, I need the money.” ([11:24])
• Musical Performance – “It’s My Lazy Day”: Smiley seamlessly transitions from banter to song, reinforcing the laid-back, gently comic mood. ([11:44])

[13:47] – Sacred Song Moment

• "The Last Mile of the Way":
  An emotional, reflective group singing, highlighting the Opry’s tradition of including gospel numbers.
  “If I walk in the pathway of duty / If I work till the close of the day…” ([13:47])
• Focus on harmonies and gentle delivery.

[17:54] – Nostalgic Song: Old Hickory Singers

• “In a Little Red Barn on a Farm Down in Indiana”:
  Classic Americana; paints a vivid picture of rural Midwest life. The group harmonies evoke a sense of comfort and longing for home.

[19:43] – Minnie Pearl’s News & Comedy

• Minnie Pearl’s Entrance:
  Minnie Pearl: “I’m just proud to be here.” ([20:07])
• Storytelling:
  Tales of local characters and family, including a mix of one-liners and gentle satire about small-town living.
• Humor About Names:
  “They had a sandwich called a Mother in Law Sandwich. That’s cold shoulder and spiced tongue.” ([20:16])
• Highlight on “Cousin Cromwell” and “Aunt Ambrose”: Minnie’s family-centered stories, full of rural wisdom and jokes about marriage and misunderstandings.
• Expert Delivery: Giggles and pauses timed for maximum mirth.

[24:44] – Smiley Burnett Performs for Children

• “Uncle Noah’s Ark”:
  A lively, animal-filled tune appealing to young listeners. Sound effects and comic voices add to the fun, maintaining lightheartedness in the show’s pacing.

[26:38] – Banjo Interlude: Stringbean

• “Little Liza Jane”:
  Stringbean brings classic banjo-pickin’ energy, contributing to the episode’s variety show atmosphere.

[28:15] – Red Foley’s Ballad: “Are You Trying to Tell Me Goodbye?”

• Vocal Highlight:
  Red Foley’s smooth, plaintive vocal delivery explores heartbreak, a staple of classic country storytelling.
• Noteworthy lyric:
  “Are you trying to tell me goodbye?... You know it would hurt me if we had to part.” ([29:17])

[30:32] – Closing Messages

• Civic Reminder:
  Red Foley encourages listeners to register to vote, adding a note of civic participation to the closing:
  “Regardless of who your favorite candidate may be, you can’t vote unless you’re registered. So be sure and register, won’t you?” ([30:12])
• Next Week’s Teaser:
  A promise of future guest Sue Thompson and an invitation back to the Opry.
• Sponsor Tag: Ongoing mentions of Prince Albert tobacco, framing much of the show’s comedic and musical transitions.

Notable Quotes & Moments

• Red Foley: “That show was a tasty bit there. Just like Prince Albert's fine tasting smoking tobacco.” ([13:47])
• Minnie Pearl: “First he thinks she's his'n and later finds out he's hern.” (On marriage, [23:48])
• Smiley Burnett: “Besides, I need the money.” ([11:33]) – A classic show-biz wink.

Episode Flow & Tone

The episode radiates down-home warmth, quick-witted humor, and classic Opry musicality. The interplay between Red Foley and his guests is playful, supportive, and delivered in a gentle Southern cadence. The show strikes a balance between laughter, sentimentality, and community spirit—a hallmark of early radio variety entertainment.

Timestamps for Key Segments

• [01:43] – Podcast intro by Andrew Rhynes
• [02:06] – Grand Ole Opry show opening and welcomes
• [04:36] – Rod Brassfield comedy segment
• [10:47] – Introduction and first musical number by Smiley Burnett
• [13:47] – "The Last Mile of the Way" (sacred number)
• [17:54] – Old Hickory Singers: “In a Little Red Barn...”
• [19:43] – Minnie Pearl’s news and comedy
• [24:44] – Smiley Burnett: “Uncle Noah’s Ark” (children’s song)
• [26:38] – Stringbean: “Little Liza Jane” (banjo)
• [28:15] – Red Foley: “Are You Trying to Tell Me Goodbye?”
• [30:32] – Civic reminder and episode close

Summary

For listeners new and old, this episode brings classic country spirit, warmth, humor, and a slice of rural Americana, thanks to the lively performers and Red Foley’s steady hosting. The digital restoration adds vibrancy to the nostalgia, making it both a preservation and a celebration of golden-era radio.